Cool Mom

I have been called “Cool Mom” by all three of my kids many times. Is this a huge accomplishment? Yes! Am I proud? Yes! Here’s why…

For most, “Cool Mom” is a title easily achieved. I mean, seriously, it doesn’t take much effort to be a mom who has befriended her children, has no rules or guidelines for her children and doesn’t hold her children accountable for anything. In my book, however, this does not define a “Cool Mom”, but is actually a dangerous recipe for some of the selfish and entitled problems of the world.

Me? Well… as a “Cool Mom”, my children are still required to follow quite a long list of rules. They are expected to always respect everyone, treat everyone kindly and always be polite. Their rooms are to remain clean, they must pick up after themselves and they are to do any chore asked of them without whining. Grades need to be kept up and all homework must be turned in. Most of all, no lying. Now, after reading this, you may be thinking “this woman is crazy!” However, keep in mind, my kids still say I’m a “Cool Mom” and this is why…

I never expect them to be perfect. In fact, I don’t believe in the concept of “perfection”. Everyone makes mistakes. It’s a part of life. Children, especially, are going to make mistakes, because they are still learning every day. So, when they make a mistake, I sit down and talk with them. I help them understand why it was wrong and how they can do better next time. I don’t yell at them or call them names or swear at them. Plus, I have made it very clear to my kids that there is never going to be a situation we can’t work through and they know they can come and talk to me about anything… literally anything… I won’t get mad. If they can’t talk to me, how am I going to help them grow into the upstanding citizens that I hope they will be someday?

So, yes, I’m strict and I have high expectations, but I’m also laid back and understanding that they are children and human beings. My children have fun, they make messes, they play, they are loud, they are very goofy… but they know when it’s not appropriate to be loud and to pick up their messes and to always remember their morals.

Somehow, all of this has defined “Cool Mom” in my household. I truly believe children need and want rules and guidelines and to know they always have someone they can talk to. It helps them feel safe and loved.

Our job isn’t easy, Moms, but we can figure it out together. So, “Cheers!” to us! We can all be “Cool Moms”!